Forecast

Danbury senior legion team clinches playoff spot

REDDING -- The Danbury 19U senior legion team didn't clinch a playoff spot in the most exciting of ways, but that was no fault of their own.

With its starting lineup already penciled in and awaiting a shot at a postseason-clinching victory at Joel Barlow High School against Easton, the first pitch was never thrown.

After a 30-minute delay, it became apparent that no umpires would be arriving. According to league rules, it is the duty of the home team (Easton) to provide umpires and said team forfeits if no officials are present.

The forfeit decision was Danbury's fourth straight victory, which raised its record to 12-13.

With just two regular season games remaining, coach Freddy Rivas believes his team is hitting its stride at the right time.

"I think the playoffs start on Sunday and Monday, so we'll be ready to play if that's the case," Rivas said. "Everybody showing up is a key too because a lot of kids work and stuff.

Defensive standouts include Yusko and Klein in the middle infield, but Rivas was quick to point out that his entire team has produced quality glove work throughout the summer.

"A lot of the kids are playing great defense," Rivas said. "The last two weeks they've been playing great defense. Our shortstop and second baseman have been playing great. We haven't made a lot of errors."

Burdick and Conn have toed the hill with success for Danbury as well.

"The pitching is coming along. We've had great pitching the last week," Rivas said. "Casey and Zack Conn have been pitching great."

Danbury's final two regular season games come in the form of a doubleheader on Saturday against Easton (9-16) with the first pitch slated for noon.

Danbury's spot in the postseason is locked up, but Rivas still believes it is of great importance to perform well in the twin billing and keep the recent hot streak alive as his team heads to the playoffs.

"The two games for tomorrow are for seeding," Rivas said. "It's going to be great. We've won the last three games. Including this, four. Going into the playoffs with six wins in a row will keep the kids happy."